Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2020	Mar. 31, 2019
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income	$ 16,829	$ 17,077
Other comprehensive income
Change in unrealized loss on cash flow hedge	0	(46)
Total comprehensive income	16,829	17,031
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(3,565)	(3,618)
Total comprehensive income attributable to Saul Centers, Inc.	13,264	13,413
Preferred stock dividends	(2,798)	(2,953)
Total comprehensive income available to common stockholders	$ 10,466	$ 10,460